Wi-Fi in Africa: Cellphones, Tablets and Connecting while Traveling in Africa

Wi-Fi in Africa

In this modern age, our smart phones and tablets are like a physical extension of ourselves, having Wi-Fi in Africa could help keep you connected. It almost feels as if we have a primal need for texts, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,Pinterest, Snapchat and (did I forget any?).

Is There Wi-Fi Service in Africa?

We all worry about being disconnected. I am constantly asked, “Is there Wi-Fi in Africa and where can I charge my devices?” In every major city in Africa most hotels and lodges have Wi-Fi. The quality will vary from city to city and accommodation to accommodation. And while more and more camps in the bush are installing Wi-Fi the connection can be spotty.

Cellular Service in Africa

Cellular service for mobile phones is more reliable than Wi-Fi services while traveling Africa. Everyone in Africa seems to have a cell phone. In fact I have Maasai friends who live in a tiny village in Kenya with no electricity or running water. Yet, I can take out my phone right now and text them. However, be warned. If you use your American cell phone it can be very expensive. Check with your cell phone carrier to see what plans they have. Not every carrier has an arrangement with African cellular service carriers so that can make it even more expensive and spotty with respect to cellular service.

Charging Electronic Devices in Africa

Charging station

So how do you charge all this gear along with your camera, video and GoPro while traveling in Africa? At most lodges and camps there is no electricity in the rooms but there is in the dining area there is a charging stations that allow people to charge their camera batteries, cell phones, ipads, kindles, nooks and any other device that lights up and has a battery. As another option, some of the new African safarivehicles have inverters that allow you to charge mobile devices in the vehicles.

African Travel Tip: You will need an adapter for your plug. The one on the left is for East Africa and the one on the right is for South Africa.

Unplug Anyway

While you can charge and use mobile devices in Africa, there is another thing to consider. You are out in the bush, in one of the most beautiful stunning places in the world. Seeing things you can’t see anywhere else in the world. Enjoy it. Appreciate it. It is a great way to get back into the rhythm of life that is Africa. Unless you really need to check that email, send that Facebook post or tweet, turn your devices off and leave them off. This is one time you’ll probably be happier with a paperback book than a tablet. Even put your camera down once in a while (whether you have 500 or 600 Zebra photographs will not make that much of a difference). The world will probably not end if you leave your device in the off position.

Infinite Safari Adventures creates custom wildlife and adventure safaris for its clients. Come on safari with us and experience the ultimate in attention to detail, responsiveness and care. Our philosophy is simple – we were once safari clients like you and we will treat you with the same high standards as we would expect ourselves.

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1 Comment

I am a frequent trelaver and most of the times, I need to access my desktop documents. But during my travel i find it difficult to access the documents stored in the desktop. Can someone suggest a way to have access to my desktop files even during my travel?